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How to Get to Serang

How to Get to Serang

Serang Banten, Indonesia Travel Guide

Flight Information

International & Domestic Carriers

CGK hosts numerous international airlines, including major carriers like Garuda Indonesia, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and AirAsia, connecting to global hubs across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Airlines

  • International: Garuda Indonesia, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, AirAsia.
  • Domestic: Lion Air, Batik Air, Citilink.
  • Connecting to global hubs across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Flight Routes & Scheduling

Many major cities within Asia, Europe, and the Middle East offer non-stop flight choices to CGK. Travelers from North America will typically have a layover in East Asia or the Middle East, as direct flights from North America to Jakarta are rare. Check Skyscanner for the most convenient routes from your departure point.

Booking Advice

  • Book during shoulder season (May, Sep) for better prices.
  • Avoid major Indonesian holidays (Eid al-Fitr, Christmas, New Year).
  • Use flight aggregator websites like Dollar Flight Club for routes.

Soekarno-Hatta CGK

Indonesia's main international airport, 60-70 kilometers from Serang.

Seasonal Pricing

Prices increase during peak holidays; book early for availability.

Airport Facilities

Lounges, duty-free, restaurants, currency exchange, SIM cards, hotels.

Airport Transfers to Serang

Taxi Services

  • Metered taxis (Blue Bird Group) available at designated airport stands.
  • Journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
  • Ensure meter is used or agree on fare beforehand for transparent pricing.
  • Cash is the preferred payment method, although some taxis may accept credit cards.

Ride-Sharing & Buses

  • Grab and Gojek services also operate from CGK, offering convenient pickup points.
  • Bus to the airportes (DAMRI) run from CGK to various points, including Serang, check schedules on arrival.
  • Pre-booked private cars or hotel transfers offer the most convenient and comfortable option.
  • There can be a lot of traffic, especially around Jakarta, plan accordingly.

CGK Facilities and Services

Terminals & Lounges

Multiple terminals with a wide array of lounges where you can comfortable waits.

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, diverse restaurants, and local food vendors.

Convenience Services

Currency exchange, ATMs, and vendors offering local SIM cards. Hotels available within or near the airport.

Navigating by Land

Train Services

Serang has its own train station (Stasiun Serang), offering local and regional train connections. These services, operated by PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI), link Serang to Jakarta (via Rangkasbitung) and to Merak.

Features

  • Connections to Jakarta (via Rangkasbitung) and Merak.
  • Managed by PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI).
  • Train travel offers a comfortable and scenic way between cities.

Bus Terminal

The main bus terminal in Serang is Terminal Pakupatan Serang. This terminal provides an extensive network of long-distance bus options, connecting Serang to various cities across Java, including Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Surabaya.

Services Offered

  • Connections to various cities across Java (Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta).
  • Buses also connect to Sumatra via the Merak ferry.
  • Numerous private bus operators offer different classes of service (economy to VIP).

Car Rentals

To rent a car, you are required to possess a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your original national driving license. The minimum age for renting a car usually falls between 21 and 23.

Rental Requirements

  • Valid IDP and original home country driving license.
  • Minimum age for rental usually 21-23 years old.
  • Major international chains (Avis, Hertz) at CGK, local companies in Serang.

Road Conditions & Driving Laws

Major roads, like areas of the Trans-Java Toll Road and national routes, are generally in good condition. However, smaller roads could be less maintained. Driving laws require you to drive on the left side of the road.

Driving Information

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Helmets mandatory for motorcycles, seatbelts for cars.
  • Traffic can be heavy and chaotic; reckless driving common.

Safety Warnings

  • Congested traffic and unpredictable maneuvers are common.
  • Driving at night on unfamiliar roads can be challenging due to poor lighting.
  • Always exercise caution, especially regarding pedestrians and the high volume of motorcycles.
  • If renting a car, consider a driver to alleviate navigation stress.
  • Avoid unofficial rental services to prevent potential scams.
  • Use GPS navigation but be prepared for unexpected detours or road closures.

Sea Travel Options

Merak Port Overview

Merak Port, located northwest of Serang and approximately a 1.5-hour drive away, functions as a major ferry terminal. It connects Java (Banten province) with Sumatra (Bakauheni port). Ferries operate frequently, 24 hours a day, A full week a week, making it a busy transportation link between the pair islands.

Features

  • Major ferry terminal connecting Java (Banten) with Sumatra (Bakauheni port).
  • Operates frequently, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
  • Important hub for regional domestic travel, not international cruise ships.

Immigration & Connections

River transportation is not a principal mode of transport within Serang city itself. Even though some smaller rivers flow through the region, they aren't used for public transit or significant tourist activities. For domestic ferry travel between Merak and Bakauheni, no immigration procedures are involved.

Travel Details

  • No immigration procedures for domestic ferries (Merak-Bakauheni).
  • Excellent connections to land transportation (buses, trains) to Serang and Java.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are available around the port area.

Ferry to Sumatra

Merak Port links Java to Bakauheni in Sumatra, operating 24/7.

Domestic Hub

A busy regional transport link, not an international cruise port.

Onward Travel

Easy access to buses and trains for connections to Serang and Java.

Smooth Departures

Departure Procedures

Follow recommended departure procedures and timing for a hassle-free journey. For international flights departing from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), plan to arrive at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure time.

Steps

  • Check-in (online beforehand or at airline counter).
  • Drop off any checked baggage.
  • Proceed through security screening and immigration (international flights).

Airport Amenities

CGK offers numerous facilities and services for departing travelers. You will find a wide selection of dining options, from local Indonesian cuisine to international fast-food chains and cafes. The airport also features extensive shopping opportunities, including duty-free stores.

Services Available

  • Wide selection of dining options.
  • Duty-free and other opportunities to shop.
  • Various lounges for comfortable waiting experiences.

Departure Timing & Traffic

International Flights

Arrive at least 3 hours in advance of the scheduled departure for CGK.

Domestic Flights

Arrive at least TWO hours before the flight is due to leave for CGK.

Traffic from Serang

Traffic to CGK can be unpredictable; allow extra travel time, particularly during rush hour.

Departure Tip

Confirm your flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport. Traffic to CGK from Serang can be unpredictable, so allow extra travel time, especially during peak hours.